Model calibration of locally nonlinear structures using information from sub and super harmonic responses

Paper in proceeding, 2012

Large linear finite element models are commonly used in industry to represent global structural behavior and such models are often validated by use of data from vibrational tests. The validated models serve to predict the structural responses due to dynamic loads. Hence, it is important to have models that are able to represent the structural dynamics within the given operating envelope. When test data show proof of non linear behavior, a linear model may not be able to represent the dynamics well enough and thus a modification of the model is required. The main part of the structure may have a linear characteristic whereas localized physical processes can be sources of the observed nonlinearities. Model calibration of such locally nonlinear structures is studied in this paper. Specifically, the calibration process including the selection of appropriate data to be used for calibration of the model parameters chosen is treated. Here, synthetic test data stemming from a model of the Ecole Centrale de Lyon (ECL) nonlinear benchmark are used.